Minor bump in Lien's road to city hall may be politics-averse landlord

TAIPEI, Taiwan -- The election office of Sean Lien (連勝文), a candidate for Taipei mayor, cannot open today as planned, as the owner of the office does not feel comfortable leasing his property for political purposes.

Lien announced his intention to run for Taipei mayor on Feb. 24. Under the original plan, Lien's election office was scheduled to open today or tomorrow. However, it was reported in local media that the owner of the leased election office is having second thoughts.

According to Lien's spokeswoman, a friend of Lien was looking for an office for lease on Lien's behalf, and found a property located between Linsen N. Road and Minzu E. Road. The office is located on the 6th floor of a building used for both residential and working spaces.

It was only after the lease contract was signed that the landlord found out that the office would be used for political activity. The landlord was reportedly concerned that political activities may cause too much rancor and disturb neighbors. As such, the landlord wants to repeal the contract.

The campaign spokeswoman said that Lien's team is still negotiating with the landlord. If the landlord in the end does decide not to lease his property, Lien's team will try to find other suitable places.

Lien's team is divided into three units: organization, propaganda and media. Lien's election office is scheduled to announce his advisors next week. Those in the finance industry are expected to be nominated.